2008 BMW 550 vs. 2012 Audi S4
To start off, 2012 Audi S4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 550 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2012 Audi S4. (333 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi S4.
Because 2012 Audi S4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi S4 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 BMW 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi S4. (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi S4. 2012 Audi S4 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi S4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 2012 Audi S4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 550 | S4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
